Common Reasons to See a Hematologist in Lebanon

Hematology bridges primary care and intensive cancer care. A hematologist evaluates abnormalities of red cells, white cells, platelets, clotting, and the bone marrow.

Reasons to consult

• Persistent anaemia not resolving with iron supplementation.
• Unexplained bruising, bleeding gums, nosebleeds, prolonged periods.
• Abnormal complete blood count picked up incidentally.
• Family history of thalassemia, sickle-cell disease, hemophilia or other inherited conditions.
• Recurrent miscarriages or unexplained thrombosis (DVT, PE, stroke at young age).
• Suspected blood cancer (leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma).

Regional considerations

Mediterranean and Middle Eastern populations have higher carrier rates for beta-thalassemia and G6PD deficiency. Premarital screening — encouraged by the Order of Physicians and several religious authorities — identifies couples at risk so they can plan accordingly.

What to bring

• All previous CBCs and any peripheral-blood-smear reports.
• Iron studies (ferritin, transferrin saturation, TIBC) if anaemia is the concern.
• Coagulation profile (PT, aPTT, INR) if bleeding or clotting is the question.
• Family history with dates and the type of cancers or blood disorders.

What may be ordered

Hemoglobin electrophoresis (for thalassemia), bone-marrow biopsy (cytopenia, leukaemia workup), flow cytometry, molecular testing for hereditary thrombophilia or JAK2-V617F. Many of these are sent to specialized labs in Beirut.

Cost & coverage

Initial visit 60–100 fresh USD. Bone-marrow biopsy 300–700 USD in private centres. NSSF and private insurance cover hematology investigations with prior authorization. The Ministry of Public Health covers most leukaemia and lymphoma treatment for uninsured citizens.